History of the Dule Tree
The Dule Tree at Leith Hall is one of the best known examples of this type of historical tree. It is said to have been used as both a gallows and a gibbet in the past. The house dates from the 17th century, so the macabre use of the tree probably does too.
Another Dule Tree Tradition
There is a gentler tradition associated with dule trees. They were possibly used as places of mourning. The word ‘dule’ derives from Gaelic, and means grief.
Me, actually in the tree, trying to take a photo from an interesting angle:
Leith Hall through the trees:
One of the hall’s beautiful windows:
There’s more Leith Hall to be found here
Meanwhile, back at the desk…
The editing of A Dancer’s Journey series continues apace…
And in the garden…
Spring in Scotland is also going well.
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FIREFLIES AND CHOCOLATE
FIREFLIES AND CHOCOLATE was inspired by the 600 children and young people who were kidnapped from Aberdeen during the 1740s and sold into indentured servitude in the American Colonies. The story follows the adventures of Elizabeth Manteith from the castle and her determined efforts to get back home. There’s love. There’s proper derring-dos on the high seas… and there’s chocolate!
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The tree and its history are fascinating and rather foreign to a Canadian.
We do have some strange old ways here 🙂
I just returned from a 2-week trip to Scotland, but we didn’t make it to that part of the country this time. (Edinburgh, Stirling, Falkirk, Aviemore, St. Andrews this time around.) Maybe next time!
It sounds like you saw quite a lot, though 🙂
Lovely photos and a grand tree. Maybe we”ll see something similar there next year. I’d forgotten how late spring can be in Scotland.
The snow was a somewhat unwelcome visitor!
Loving also that your being in the Dule Tree makes you look like you could easily be friends with an elephant since this tree reminds me of an elephant.
I could be friends with an elephant 🙂
Great photos, Ailish, and an absorbing piece of history. Thank you for being so informative and talented.
I’m glad you enjoyed the post, Tim 🙂
The Dule Tree is so striking! We don’t have trees that old in the US.
It does have a wonderfully distinctive shape.
What a fascinating piece of history! I’m grateful that you’re able to share these glimpses into the past with us.
I’m glad you liked it 🙂
The way the branch is bent looks very similar to the Indian Trees here in America! The Indians would bend the trees to indicate to others the right direction to go. They’re also called Trail Trees or Prayer Trees
Those sound amazing!
Thanks for sharing the story behind the Dule tree. I enjoyed your photos as well, Ailish.
I’m glad you enjoyed them 🙂